Brave Writer

Explore the intriguing journey of middle school writers as they build their confidence in expression. Discover the power of freewriting to spark creativity and the importance of playful revision techniques. Unique insights on the emotional rollercoaster young authors experience compare their growth to running a marathon. Delve into innovative homeschooling resources and the therapeutic benefits of storytelling. Uncover strategies that transform reluctant writers into enthusiastic creators and celebrate their journey of self-discovery through writing!

In this podcast, they discuss the importance of partnership in the writing journey for emerging writers aged 8-10. They emphasize the benefits of parental support in reducing stress and enhancing success. They also highlight the value of engaging children in quality literature and educational conversations, along with collaborating with editors and siblings to enhance writing skills.

Exploring the natural stages of growth in writing for beginner writers, the hosts share personal anecdotes and emphasize the importance of jotting down children's stories to preserve family memories. They discuss the value of capturing thoughts in words at a young age and showcase bundles for beginning writers, focusing on enhancing literacy skills through interactive activities and fairy tale projects.

Dr. Shefali, bestselling author, shares insights on conscious parenting, focusing on parent's biases and playful connection. She discusses redefining success, self-awareness, and nurturing children with love and understanding. The podcast offers valuable strategies for building meaningful relationships and personal growth in parenting.

Pat Murray, Founder of CTC Math, discusses how his program helps students identify and overcome missing math skills to boost confidence. He explains the importance of personalized learning, immediate practice, and the power of 'yet' for growth. The podcast also highlights the significance of practice, pattern recognition, and supporting children's success in math education.

In this podcast, they discuss prioritizing tools over traditional curriculum for homeschooling. They emphasize the importance of writing utensils, art supplies, baking tools, science kits, and games. They also highlight utilizing public educational spaces like museums and zoos, along with experiential learning. The episode provides tips on sparking creativity and joy in learning environments.

Homeschool moms Maren and Angela talk about joyful learning, honoring differences, and building relationships over rules. They share insights from their book for a more empowering homeschooling experience.

It’s almost time for our annual book list release! Every year we curate a new list of books to be part of our Dart (ages 8-10 ), Arrow (10-12), and Boomerang (12-14) programs. Dawn Smith spearheads this undertaking and she joins us today to describe how she picks which books to be on the list.The reason the book release is so highly anticipated is because Dawn chooses books that she knows are going to elicit kids’ buy-in, lead to big, juicy family conversations, and give kids tools to tell their own stories.Dawn and Melissa explain the journey they go on to put together the Dart, Arrow, and Boomerang programs, how they are intentional about centering what is activating, engaging, and flexible. Plus, stay tuned until the end to learn how to sign up for the book list announcement webinars and the giveaways you may win!Resources:Sign up to attend the free Brave Writer Book Reveal webinars!Check out the Brave Writer Bookshop Take a look at the Skunk & Badger DartStart a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!Check out the new “Becoming a Critical Thinker” workbook Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684Connect with Julie:Instagram: @juliebravewriterThreads: @juliebravewriterTwitter: @bravewriterFacebook: facebook.com/bravewriterConnect with Melissa:Website: melissawiley.comSubstack: melissawiley.substack.comInstagram: @melissawileybooksTwitter: @melissawileyProduced by NOVA Media

Hooray! Today’s the publication day of my (Julie’s) new workbook, “Becoming a Critical Thinker.” If you’re a longtime listener of this podcast, you know that I’m pretty strict about workbooks. They should lead a child to mastery, to embodiment, to knowing the content for themselves. That’s the approach I took to creating this workbook. I’ve reduced each of the activities to one key point. I've written just enough text for students to get that idea and then to practice it in the activity.I designed this workbook to help students grow as critical thinkers by turning the focus to their own thoughts. Why do they believe what they believe? What flaws can they notice in their own thinking? How do they reach conclusions?I dive into all this in-depth in today’s episode. Thank you for joining me on this special day!Resources:Check out the new “Becoming a Critical Thinker” workbook Buy the “Raising Critical Thinkers” book  Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684Connect with Julie:Instagram: @juliebravewriterThreads: @juliebravewriterTwitter: @bravewriterFacebook: facebook.com/bravewriterConnect with Melissa:Website: melissawiley.comSubstack: melissawiley.substack.comInstagram: @melissawileybooksTwitter: @melissawileyProduced by NOVA Media

Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, discusses the intersection of motherhood and activism, emphasizing women's empowerment and overcoming challenges. Topics include withstanding blowback, celebrating wins, and utilizing social media to amplify messages. The conversation highlights the importance of women in advocacy and the power of resilience in driving real policy change.